I decided to add the tensioning bolt to the SD today. For some reason, it never had the proper bolt with the tensioning stud.

I ran into a problem with the clearance between the alternator and the water pump housing nipple for the heater core.

To release tension on the belts, the alternator pivots upward and toward the engine on a bolt that is almost directly beneath the alternator.

To remove the belts, the alternator needs to rotate about 3/4 of the way along the adjustment slot. However, it cannot do this because it hits the hose that is attached to the aluminum pump housing nipple. So, the belts cannot be removed without removing the alternator.

If the hose is removed from the nipple, then the alternator can move upward just a tad more and the belts can just barely be removed.

Has anyone else encountered this with the SD? It appears that you would have to break into the cooling system and remove that hose to change belts.

Seems ridiculous to me.

The entire situation would be corrected if the belts were 20mm longer.


BTW, anyone who is working out there today needs to have their head examined.